[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 119 (Tuesday, July 24, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1607]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    TRIBUTE TO TOMMY ``T.K.'' MARTIN

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                        HON. TIMOTHY V. JOHNSON

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, July 24, 2007

  Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois. Madam Speaker, today I stand before you to 
honor a fallen hero, Tommy ``T.K.'' Martin. Tommy, who served as the 
Douglas County Sheriff Department's chief deputy, was shot in the line 
of duty last month while pursuing two men wanted for armed robbery. 
After a valiant month-long struggle, Tommy passed away early last week 
at the age of 59.
  Our entire Nation is indebted to T.K. for his life-long dedication to 
his community and his country. He proudly served as a member of the 
Navy during the Vietnam War. After a committed tenure as a naval 
officer, he began his career with the Illinois State Police in 1978 and 
remained an important member of the crime scene investigation unit 
until his retirement in 2002. However, when he was offered the position 
of chief deputy in 2004, T.K. came out of retirement, as he could not 
resist the opportunity to continue his life of public service.
  Last Tuesday, we lost an exceptional and venerable civil servant who 
was a role model for all law-enforcement officers with whom he 
interacted during his decades on the police force. T.K. put his life on 
the line each and every day to ensure the safety of the citizens of the 
15th District of Illinois, and for that we will be forever grateful.
  While T.K. was tragically taken from us all too early, his mark on 
our community and our Nation will continue for years to come. His 
colleagues and fellow citizens will never forget his work ethic, 
loyalty, devotion to God, and infectious sense of humor. Whether it was 
working in the CSI unit or participating in events at his beloved 
Tuscola United Church of Christ, T.K. touched all of those he came in 
contact with. He died doing what he loved most: protecting his 
community.
  T.K., a grateful Nation thanks you for a life-time of noble service. 
You are a hero and role model for all Americans. You will be sorely 
missed but your spirit will always remain with us.




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